Thanks for writing such an excellent and clear explanation of what reading the Bible is about. In my years of experience as pastor and teacher most of us fall afoul of proper understanding when we want to apply are reading directly to our current context. And then there are the false prophets and Pharisees of our time.
I’ve heard the perspicuity of Scripture referred to as a swimming pool (although I can’t remember at the moment who said it). Anyone can wade into the shallow end, but to plumb the depths you need resources, training and experience… in community.
I turn 64 this month and since I entered my 60s I have been challenged to think differently about so many things I was taught in my conservative southern churches. So much I still appreciate. A former pastor recommended John Waltons book on The lost world of Adam and Eve. On a long trip we listened to it. At first my husband didn’t like what he was hearing but I encouraged him to just listen. It changed our whole view on scripture. Then I read your book 7 things I wish Christian’s knew and Dan Kimball-How not read the Bible. Since then, Dallas Willard, NT Wright so many others. It’s so fascinating to me to read from scholars. Thanks for sharing your knowledge on Substack
Hi Janet, wow, glad to be part of that journey of transformation. On a recommended Study Bible, I'd go for the NIV as first choice. Two of my students have edited two separate study Bible. Timeless Truths by Matt Capps is pretty good, as is CSB Ancient Faith Study Bible with projected managed by Brandon Smith.
Just as we rely on experienced guides in the spiritual life to help us navigate the soul’s journey, we also need knowledgeable companions in biblical studies. These seasoned voices help us bridge the gaps, understand different contexts, and weave together the threads of Scripture, all while embracing the humility that comes with knowing we see only in part, as through a dim mirror.
Thank you - and Tom Wright, Chad Bird, so many others in my life, e.g. my mother and father, Stuart Briscoe, and a trove of commentators whose works reside on my bookshelves - for your diligence in study and clarity in explaining the Word.
Reading outside one’s own era would help with biblical interpretation within the tradition. Church fathers are a good start. The democracy of the dead.
Thanks for writing such an excellent and clear explanation of what reading the Bible is about. In my years of experience as pastor and teacher most of us fall afoul of proper understanding when we want to apply are reading directly to our current context. And then there are the false prophets and Pharisees of our time.
Thanks Andy, the video version will be out soon!
This is so well done and brings clarity to a very important question!!
I’ve heard the perspicuity of Scripture referred to as a swimming pool (although I can’t remember at the moment who said it). Anyone can wade into the shallow end, but to plumb the depths you need resources, training and experience… in community.
Scott, that's a good analogy!
I turn 64 this month and since I entered my 60s I have been challenged to think differently about so many things I was taught in my conservative southern churches. So much I still appreciate. A former pastor recommended John Waltons book on The lost world of Adam and Eve. On a long trip we listened to it. At first my husband didn’t like what he was hearing but I encouraged him to just listen. It changed our whole view on scripture. Then I read your book 7 things I wish Christian’s knew and Dan Kimball-How not read the Bible. Since then, Dallas Willard, NT Wright so many others. It’s so fascinating to me to read from scholars. Thanks for sharing your knowledge on Substack
Can you recommend a study bible-
Hi Janet, wow, glad to be part of that journey of transformation. On a recommended Study Bible, I'd go for the NIV as first choice. Two of my students have edited two separate study Bible. Timeless Truths by Matt Capps is pretty good, as is CSB Ancient Faith Study Bible with projected managed by Brandon Smith.
Thank you!
Excellent, Mike! Thanks for this.
Thanks Paul!
Just as we rely on experienced guides in the spiritual life to help us navigate the soul’s journey, we also need knowledgeable companions in biblical studies. These seasoned voices help us bridge the gaps, understand different contexts, and weave together the threads of Scripture, all while embracing the humility that comes with knowing we see only in part, as through a dim mirror.
Carmen, very well put!
One of the problems if you read 6 different Bible scholars you get 6 different opinions.
KISS principal “love your neighbor as you love yourself”. That principle, if followed, would solve a lot of problems.
I think it was St Augustine who said that the better reading of scripture was the one that led to greater love for our neighbours
Simon, you beat me to it!
Don, that's what Augustine said!
I found this post encouraging, having recently read, but not understood, the last few chapters of Ezekiel! Thank you.
You and me both brother!
Thank you - and Tom Wright, Chad Bird, so many others in my life, e.g. my mother and father, Stuart Briscoe, and a trove of commentators whose works reside on my bookshelves - for your diligence in study and clarity in explaining the Word.
Excellent post!
Reading outside one’s own era would help with biblical interpretation within the tradition. Church fathers are a good start. The democracy of the dead.